00:00Tungsten is extracted from this black powder.
00:03Its unique properties make it crucial for several industries, including data centers.
00:09That's because tungsten is extremely hard and heat-resistant and doesn't wear out quickly.
00:16The metal is also used in the defense industry.
00:21Defense is becoming dramatically important, and that is one of the reasons why China is severely restricting tungsten exports.
00:29They argue that tungsten could potentially be used for defense applications.
00:34Cao Heinz Vex's company is one of the world's leading tungsten processors.
00:40The fact that China, the world's largest producer, has imposed export controls doesn't bother him.
00:45Planze can manufacture its products independently from China.
00:50The Austria-based company collects tungsten scrap from across Europe and recycles it.
00:58Long-term supply contracts with a mine in South Korea provide additional supply security.
01:03The technical processes at the recycling plant remain a closely guarded secret as Planze protects its unique expertise in the
01:11field.
01:12Planze also manufactures in Germany.
01:15Open borders within the EU make for seamless cooperation.
01:19The group specializes not only in recycling, but also in manufacturing a variety of products from the material.
01:26The German warehouse is under tight security.
01:30Ever since China imposed export restrictions for tungsten, prices have skyrocketed.
01:35Suddenly, the goods stored here are worth millions of euros.
01:40Even this small rod is worth more than it looks.
01:45I'd say this weighs about three kilos and at current rates this rod is worth 1,200 euros.
01:53A key focus of production is the manufacturing of tools used for drilling, milling and machining by both mechanical engineering
02:02firms and skilled tradespeople.
02:06This production area requires a particularly high level of confidentiality.
02:13It's where tools are made for the production of civil and military aircraft.
02:23In the aerospace industry, these tools are used to drill aircraft fuselages.
02:28It takes know-how and experience to manufacture these items.
02:34Without these tools, many factories would grind to a halt.
02:38Having its own reliable supply chain, independent of China, is crucial for the company.
02:44Yet, scrap-containing tungsten is still being exported to China.
02:51Looking at the supply for the European market, every gram of tungsten counts.
02:56That means scrap generated here in Europe really needs to stay in Europe.
03:05Tungsten is on the EU's list of critical raw materials.
03:09And the global battle for it is intensifying.
03:12Europe needs a sustainable strategy to hold its own against China.
03:18Otherwise, it could be facing another dependency.
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